MRS THOMPSON (1950-2026) + MR JACK (1951-2025)
Sabbia is honoured to present works from the estate collections of Rupert Jack and Carlene Thompson, two senior Ernabella (Pukatja) artists whose cultural knowledge and long‑standing contributions have been central to the creative life of the APY Lands. As two of the first Ernabella artists represented by the gallery, they played an important role in strengthening the profile of contemporary First Nations ceramics in Australia.
Rupert Jack (1951–2025) was a respected Pitjantjatjara elder, pastor and artist whose ceramics and paintings reflect deep cultural narratives and a lifetime of community leadership. His practice, grounded in Country, law and faith, has been widely recognised, with works held in major public collections and included in key exhibitions that chart the evolution of Ernabella’s ceramics studio.
Carlene Thompson (1950–2026) was a highly regarded multidisciplinary artist whose work spanned ceramics, painting, fibre and carving. Her artworks, centred on her father’s Country at Kanpi and the Kalaya story, demonstrate her strong cultural authority and her commitment to mentoring younger artists. Her work is represented in significant national collections, affirming her role in advancing contemporary ceramics and expanding its audience.
Over many years of working with both artists, Sabbia witnessed the depth of their influence and the pivotal contribution they made to the visibility and growth of Ernabella’s ceramics practice. This exhibition acknowledges their enduring impact and the important legacies they leave within both their community and Australian art.
Names and images of the late artists are used with the permission of their families and the Ernabella (Pukatja) community.
